Skillets are the ultimate tool for creating quick, flavorful main dishes that keep cleanup to a minimum. From chicken thighs to lasagna, these recipes make it easy to whip up satisfying meals packed with bold flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting, these 14 skillet main dishes deliver a delicious mix of variety and ease.

Easy Skillet Lasagna Without Ricotta

Easy Skillet Lasagna Without Ricotta. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Who says lasagna has to take hours? This skillet lasagna skips the ricotta for a creamy, cheesy finish without the fuss. It’s loaded with layers of noodles and a rich tomato sauce, all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Easy Skillet Lasagna Without Ricotta

Skillet Pork Chops with Vegetables

Skillet Pork Chops with Vegetables. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Tender pork chops and perfectly cooked vegetables come together in this balanced, hearty meal. With a golden sear and bright seasoning, it’s a satisfying, no-fuss dinner solution. Bonus points for how beautiful it looks when served!
Get the Recipe: Skillet Pork Chops with Vegetables

Taco Rice Skillet

Closeup of a skillet with ground beef, cheese and tomatoes.
Taco Rice Skillet. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This taco rice skillet combines all your favorite Tex-Mex flavors into one easy dish. Seasoned ground beef, rice, and melty cheese make it a fun and satisfying way to switch up Taco Tuesday.
Get the Recipe: Taco Rice Skillet

Mexican Ground Beef Skillet

Mexican ground beef skillet recipe with melted cheese.
Mexican Ground Beef Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Packed with bold spices, this recipe is a fiesta in a pan! Ground beef, corn, black beans, and fresh toppings like cilantro come together in a meal that’s as colorful as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Ground Beef Skillet

Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Ground beef cabbage stir fry in a bowl with chopsticks.
Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Hearty and nutritious, this skillet meal offers savory ground beef and tender cabbage in a simple yet satisfying dish. Perfect for those who crave something warm, wholesome, and easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Easy Chicken Taco Skillet

Cooked chicken skillet, with cheese, pepper, avocado and cilantro on it.
Easy Chicken Taco Skillet. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

This one-pan wonder delivers all the flavors of your favorite chicken tacos, without the need to assemble. Shredded chicken with beans, corn, and spices makes for an effortless dinner bursting with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Taco Skillet

Cheeseburger Skillet

A wooden spoon scoops a portion of cooked ground meat with melted cheese from a pan.
Cheeseburger Skillet. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

This skillet brings all the joy of a cheeseburger into a quick, comfort-food meal. Juicy ground beef, gooey cheese, and crispy toppings make this dish indulgent and absolutely satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Skillet

Quick Skillet Shrimp Fajitas

Shrimp and peppers in a skillet with serving spoon.
Quick Skillet Shrimp Fajitas. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Ready in no time, these shrimp fajitas pack a punch with bold flavors and vibrant bell peppers. It’s a fresh, light meal option that works just as well for a busy weeknight as it does for entertaining guests.
Get the Recipe: Quick Skillet Shrimp Fajitas

Loaded Blackened Skillet Chicken

Chicken breasts in a skillet covered with onions and cheese.
Loaded Blackened Skillet Chicken. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Seasoned with a smoky, spicy blackened rub, this chicken skillet is loaded with hearty toppings like cheese and vegetables. It’s big on flavor and makes for a filling and impressive meal.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Blackened Skillet Chicken

Sausage Egg Roll Skillet

A spoonful of meat and cabbage in a pan.
Sausage Egg Roll Skillet. Photo credit: Call Me Pmc.

All the deliciousness of an egg roll without the wrapper! Cabbage, carrots, and spiced sausage come together in this quick, skillet meal that’s low on carbs but high on taste.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Egg Roll Skillet

Honey Garlic Sriracha Skillet Chicken

Asian glazed chicken in a skillet with lemon slices.
Honey Garlic Sriracha Skillet Chicken. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Sweet meets heat in this sticky, flavorful honey garlic Sriracha chicken skillet. Tender chicken thighs are coated with a luscious sauce that’s just the right amount of spicy and sweet.
Get the Recipe: Honey Garlic Sriracha Skillet Chicken

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

A serving of creamy balsamic chicken skillet next to a serving of green salad.
Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This creamy balsamic chicken skillet creates an elegant, comforting meal. The tangy balsamic glaze combined with rich creaminess makes it special enough for date night, yet easy enough for everyday dining.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale

Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Packed with protein and vibrant greens, this Tuscan white bean skillet is as nutritious as it is delicious. The hearty beans and kale get a Mediterranean twist with garlic and olive oil.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale

Fried Cabbage and Sausage Skillet

A pan filled with fried cabbage and sausage, with a wooden spoon resting inside.
Fried Cabbage and Sausage Skillet. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

This rustic cabbage and sausage skillet combines smoky sausage with tender, well-seasoned cabbage. It’s a simple dish that hits all the right notes for comfort, flavor, and ease.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage and Sausage Skillet

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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